# Is the Pixel 9 Justifiable with a $200 Upcharge Over the 9a?
Google’s Pixel A series has consistently narrowed the divide between its economical models and the flagship Pixel range. With the launch of the **Pixel 9a** and **Pixel 9**, the distinctions between the two have become subtler than ever. The Pixel 9a is priced at **$499**, while the Pixel 9 begins at **$799**—resulting in a **$200 price discrepancy**. But is the additional expense warranted? Let’s analyze it.
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## **Pixel 9a vs. Pixel 9: Main Variations**
At first sight, the Pixel 9a and Pixel 9 possess numerous commonalities, such as the **Tensor G4 processor**, **Android 15 with seven years of updates**, and **IP68 water resistance**. Nevertheless, there are several significant variations that could sway your choice.
| Feature | Pixel 9a | Pixel 9 |
|———|———|———|
| **Display** | 6.3″ pOLED, 120Hz, Gorilla Glass 3 | 6.3″ OLED, 120Hz, Gorilla Glass Victus 2 |
| **Processor** | Tensor G4 | Tensor G4 |
| **RAM** | 8GB | 12GB |
| **Storage** | 128GB / 256GB | 128GB / 256GB |
| **Rear Cameras** | 48MP (main) + 13MP (ultrawide) | 50MP (main) + 48MP (ultrawide) |
| **Front Camera** | 13MP | 10.5MP (with autofocus) |
| **Battery** | 5,100mAh | 4,700mAh |
| **Charging** | 23W wired, 7.5W wireless | 27W wired, 15W wireless |
| **Build** | Polycarbonate back | Glass back |
| **Connectivity** | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 | Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3 |
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## **Design & Construction Quality**
One of the primary distinctions between the two devices is the **material used for the build**. The **Pixel 9a features a polycarbonate (plastic) back**, in contrast to the **Pixel 9’s luxurious glass back**. If you favor a more upscale aesthetic, the Pixel 9 would be the superior option. However, the **Pixel 9a is lighter (185.9g vs. 198g)**, making it more comfortable to hold.
Moreover, the **Pixel 9a opts out of the traditional camera bar** for a simpler camera island design, which might resonate differently with Pixel enthusiasts.
### **Verdict:** If a premium touch is your preference, the Pixel 9 is the ideal selection. Conversely, if you’re okay with plastic and desire a lighter device, the Pixel 9a is a fantastic alternative.
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## **Screen & Performance**
Both smartphones sport a **6.3-inch Actua display** with a **120Hz refresh rate** and **2,700 nits peak brightness**. Nevertheless, the **Pixel 9 is equipped with Gorilla Glass Victus 2**, which offers superior durability compared to the **Gorilla Glass 3 utilized on the 9a**.
Regarding performance, both phones are powered by the **Tensor G4 chip**, ensuring they deliver **comparable speed and AI functionalities**. However, the **Pixel 9 provides 12GB of RAM**, which may enhance multitasking capabilities and future-proofing.
### **Verdict:** The Pixel 9 has a slight advantage with **better glass protection and additional RAM**, yet the **Pixel 9a provides an almost identical experience**.
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## **Battery Performance & Charging**
Unexpectedly, the **Pixel 9a is equipped with a larger 5,100mAh battery**, compared to the **4,700mAh battery in the Pixel 9**. This suggests that the **Pixel 9a could outlast the Pixel 9 on a single charge**.
However, the **Pixel 9 allows for faster 27W wired charging and 15W wireless charging**, while the **Pixel 9a is restricted to 23W wired and 7.5W wireless charging**.
### **Verdict:** If battery longevity is your foremost priority, the **Pixel 9a triumphs**. On the other hand, if you seek **quicker charging options**, the **Pixel 9 is superior**.
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## **Camera Performance**
The **Pixel 9 boasts a more advanced camera configuration** with a **50MP main sensor and a 48MP ultrawide sensor**, as opposed to the **48MP main and 13MP ultrawide on the 9a**. The **Pixel 9 also has autofocus on the ultrawide camera**, enhancing its macro shooting abilities.
For self-portraits, the **Pixel
